March 24, 2012

Berks Jazz Fest 2012: Round Midnight Jam

At midnight, the Round Midnight Jam led by bassist Gerald Veasley held in the club setting of his Jazz Base is my favorite part of the festival, because its offers the players at the festival an opportunity to jam and play in a loose setting, often showing sides of their musical personality that may surprise you. Gerald Veasley was leading the proceedings, calling various players to the stage, who quickly connected and in the spirit of exploration and improvisation would see where the music would lead them. Some of the players I can remember from last night were saxophonists Kim Waters, Andrew Neu, Elan Trotman, bassist Brian Bromberg, keyboardists Ron Reinhardt and Bill Heller, trumpet player Cindy Bradley, guitarists Gerey Johnson and Drew Davidsen, plus a host of others, providing the ultimate musical entertainment.

There will be more Round Midnight Jams this Saturday, March 24 and next weekend, Friday, March 30 and Saturday, March 31.